What should I do if my horse is scratching until it bleeds? | arlo.® Atlas
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Overview
If your horse is scratching until it bleeds, it's usually a sign that the irritation is strong enough to be causing skin damage. Sweet itch is a common reason in fly season, but flies, midges, dry skin, tack rubs or other skin irritation can also be involved. The main aim is to stop the rubbing getting worse, check the skin carefully and work out what seems to trigger it.
Things To Check
1. Look at the areas your horse is scratching most, such as the mane, tail head, face, belly or ears.
2. Check for broken skin, scabs, redness, heat, swelling or discharge.
3. Notice whether the scratching is worse at turnout, in the stable, at dawn and dusk, or after exercise.
4. See whether flies, midges or other insects seem to be around when the itching starts.
5. Check tack, rugs, headcollars and any straps for rubbing points or dirty, damp areas.
6. Look at the coat and skin condition for dandruff, dryness, rain scald-like patches or general irritation.
7. Make a note of how long the problem has been going on and whether it's getting worse.
Common Causes
Sweet itch is one of the most common causes in fly season, especially if the mane, tail or belly are affected and the horse is very itchy in certain weather or at specific times of day.
Insect irritation from flies or midges can also lead to repeated scratching, rubbing and stamping, even before the skin becomes raw.
Skin rubbing from rugs, tack or grooming can sometimes be part of the problem, particularly if the itchy area matches a pressure point or seam.
Dry skin, sensitivity to grooming products or a mild skin infection can also make a horse scratch more than usual.
What To Do
Keep the skin as clean and dry as you can without over-washing, and gently remove dirt or sweat that may be adding to the irritation.
Try to limit access to the area if your horse is rubbing hard, because repeated scratching can quickly make the skin worse.
Reduce fly and midge exposure as much as practical by thinking about turnout times, stable management and the horse's usual problem areas.
Check rugs, tack and headcollars for rubbing, and adjust anything that may be making the skin sore.
Monitor the sore areas daily so you can tell if the skin is settling or if the irritation is spreading.
When To Contact A Vet
When To Contact A Vet
Contact your vet if the skin is badly broken, the area looks infected, your horse is very uncomfortable, or the scratching keeps happening despite changes to management. A vet should also see your horse if the problem is spreading, there is marked swelling, or you're unsure whether the itching is due to sweet itch or something else.
Products That May Help
For horses that are itchy during fly season, the right routine can be easier to maintain with products chosen for summer skin and fly-season care.
Horse Fly Sprays & Summer Care
Related Questions
Why does my horse itch more in summer?
How can I tell if my horse has sweet itch?
What can I check if my horse keeps rubbing its mane or tail?
Atlas is here to support owners with practical, easy-to-understand guidance. It is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If you're concerned about your animal's health, symptoms worsen, or something doesn't feel right, contact your vet.